Who can participate?

Participation in FAST is open to all swimmers, age 18 or under, who can pass a basic proficiency test by crossing the pool unaided without touching the bottom. If you are not sure whether your swimmer is ready for swim team, we are happy to schedule a tryout before you commit to joining.

Where do we meet?

Practices will be at the Southside Virginia Family YMCA. Meets will be either at the YMCA or at Hampdeny Sydney College, depending on whether the HSC pool is available.

What is the schedule?

Swim teams will practice on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at the Southside Virginia Family YMCA. Practices typically last an hour. Each Thursday, we will hold a swim meet which rotates from pool to pool. Swim meets vary in length, but take about two hours. They generally start at 5:30pm with warmups at 5:00pm.

What are meets like?

Swim meets are meant to be positive experiences in which swimmers focus on their own improvement and bettering their times in each event. We encourage swimmers to cheer for all competitors from first place to last place. Swimmers receive ribbons that record their times for each meet.

What do swimmers need to bring to practice?

Please make sure each swimmer has a pair of goggles and a one-piece bathing suit. We will provide swim caps.

How can I be involved?

Parents are encouraged to serve as timers (stopwatches are provided) and to work with their swimmers outside of practice to continue developing skills. For other ways to volunteer, contact the Southside Virginia Family YMCA.